Rarely is there an opportunity to capitalise on alignment on national issues like there is right now. As the nation’s only standards development organisation for the rail sector, RISSB has a unique opportunity to drive a conversation across all layers of government and industry on achieving further enhancements to national standards.
As Chair and an independent director, you will guide the Chief Executive in leading an organisation respected by its 160 strong member base and charged with producing Australian Standards and harmonisation of safety and interoperability practices nationwide.
If you are a dynamic and experienced leader with a passion for corporate governance and board leadership, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Join us in shaping the future of our organisation and making a lasting impact.
The Organisation
At the heart of Australia's vast rail network lies the Rail Industry Safety and Standards Board (RISSB) - the guardian of harmonised practices that keep our trains running safely and efficiently. As the rail industry's Standards Development Organisation, RISSB's core responsibility is the development, management, and evolution of the Australian Code of Practice - a comprehensive framework encompassing standards, codes, guidelines, and rules tailored for the rail sector.
The Opportunity
The Independent Chairperson maintains oversight of the Company and the performance of the Chief Executive Officer and keep the Board informed of any issues relevant to the Company.
The Chair will lead a board comprised of Independent Directors and Industry Directors to:
- Provide leadership to the board and facilitate effective governance of RISSB.
- Guide the CEO and drive strategic planning and oversight of organisational performance.
- Manage stakeholder relationships as the board's representative on national forums.
- Ensure proper board composition, evaluation and director development to ensure the sustainability of the RISSB board.
About You
As a seasoned professional with a passion for corporate governance and board leadership, you will bring strong experience in corporate governance and a deep understanding of what it takes to lead a board effectively. You are a natural collaborator, adept at getting the most out of individual contributors and fully utilising their collective contributions to the governance of an organisation.
In this pivotal role, you will be the face of our organisation, engaging with senior stakeholders at all levels of government and within member organisations. Your ability to champion integrity, impartiality, and rigor will be instrumental in promoting public confidence in our work.
With your extensive experience in engaging with and guiding Chief Executives and senior staff, you will provide invaluable leadership and guidance to our executive team. Your expertise in board governance will be complemented by your skills in areas such as accounting, legal, marketing, communications, human resources, research and innovation, or standards and product development. Rail industry experience is desirable but not essential.
Note on eligibility:
To be eligible for the role of Independent Chairperson of RISSB, you must not hold any office of profit, nor have any direct pecuniary interest in, an institution or body that performs, or may perform services for the Company. You may also not hold any office of profit or substantial pecuniary interest with a railway industry participant. The provision of part-time consultancy services for more than one Member, however, is acceptable.
Commitment
The appointment as Chair will be for three years. The RISSB Board meets five times per year, in locations around Australia. The Chair will also attend an annual Strategy Day, any special board meetings that arise.
Outside of meetings, the Chair will be expected to commit an appropriate amount of time to support the work of the organisation and functioning of the board including attendance at events and stakeholder meetings, in particular, representing RISSB at the RISSB Safety Conference and AusRail.
How to Apply
To obtain the candidate information pack, or to apply, please email Adam Dent, Partner and Felicity Stalley, Lead Partner at *****@orchardtalent.com.au. Please note applicants must have a legal right to work in Australia.
Applications close 21 July 2024.